House Passes Veterans Healthcare Improvement Act

The Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act has been passed by the U.S. House of Representatives with a bipartisan 389-9 vote and now awaits Senate approval. The bill seeks to enhance healthcare services for veterans, expand access to mental health resources for caregivers, and improve home care and education opportunities for retired servicemembers. It includes two acts proposed by Congresswoman Jen Kiggans, addressing mental health grants and VA Medical Center security. Key provisions allow veterans more control over their healthcare choices, increase support for caregivers, and expand access to the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). The passage of the bill has been seen as a significant step toward addressing gaps in the VA's services and improving the quality of life for veterans. However, some Republicans opposed the bill, citing concerns over increased outsourcing to private healthcare providers.